Welcoming a newborn is a beautiful experience—and so is choosing the first toys that support their earliest moments of learning and discovery. During the 0–3 month stage, babies are still adjusting to the world outside the womb, so the best toys for newborns should be gentle, sensory-rich, visually engaging, and 100% safe.
In this 2025 guide, we’ve handpicked the top 10 best toys for newborns based on expert recommendations, safety certifications, and real parent reviews. Whether you’re a new parent or shopping for the perfect baby shower gift, these toys are ideal for supporting healthy development from day one.
✅ Quick Overview: Top 5 Picks
| Toy | Type | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manhattan Toy Winkel | Teether/Rattle | Grasping & Chewing | View on Amazon |
| Lovevery The Looker Play Kit | Montessori Set | Sensory & Visual Tracking | View on Amazon |
| Tiny Love Black & White Gymini | Activity Gym | Tummy Time | View on Amazon |
| Lamaze Freddie the Firefly | Clip-On Toy | Stroller/Crib Engagement | View on Amazon |
| Hape Soft Baby Mirror Book | Crinkle Toy | Visual & Tactile Play | View on Amazon |
👶 Why Toys Matter for Newborns (0–3 Months)
Newborns are born with limited vision, no muscle control, and very basic reflexes. In the first 3 months, their development includes:
- Eye-tracking and focus on high-contrast objects
- Beginning to reach and grasp
- Auditory recognition (responding to sound and voices)
- Basic sensory exploration (touch, light, movement)
The best toys during this period support visual stimulation, gentle sounds, and safe textures—not overstimulation.
🧸 10 Best Toys for Newborns (0–3 Months) in 2025
1. Manhattan Toy Winkel Rattle & Sensory Teether
A classic favorite for a reason, the Winkel is easy for tiny hands to grab and safe for teething.
Highlights:
- BPA-free, safe for mouthing
- Soft tubing perfect for grasp reflex
- Lightweight and colorful for visual engagement
🔗 View on Amazon
2. Lovevery The Looker Play Kit (0–12 Weeks)
This Montessori-inspired subscription box includes a black-and-white card set, soft book, mirror, and more—all tailored for newborn sensory development.
Highlights:
- Pediatrician-designed
- Includes a mobile, visual cards, and soft toys
- Made with sustainable, baby-safe materials
🔗 View on Amazon
3. Tiny Love Black & White Gymini Deluxe
One of the best activity gyms for newborns, with high-contrast visuals and multiple sensory elements for early development.
Highlights:
- Adjustable arches for visual tracking
- Music, crinkle toys, and mirrors
- Great for tummy time and back play
🔗 View on Amazon
4. Lamaze Freddie the Firefly
This adorable, multi-textured clip-on toy attaches easily to strollers or car seats for sensory engagement on the go.
Highlights:
- Bright colors, soft textures, mirror wings
- Crinkle and squeaky elements for sound play
- Teething-friendly design
🔗 View on Amazon
5. Hape Soft Baby Mirror Book
This foldable fabric book is perfect for tummy time and self-recognition.
Highlights:
- High-contrast images for early vision
- Safe mirror helps develop self-awareness
- Soft, washable, and chew-safe
🔗 View on Amazon
6. Black & White High-Contrast Flash Cards (Teytoy)
Newborns see best in black and white—these bold, high-contrast cards stimulate visual tracking and brain development.
Highlights:
- Durable, non-toxic laminated cards
- Features geometric shapes and faces
- Ideal for 0–12 weeks
🔗 View on Amazon
7. Infantino Spiral Activity Toy
Wraps around crib rails, car seats, or play gyms. Includes rattles, textures, and mirrors.
Highlights:
- Multiple hanging toys for exploration
- Stimulates auditory and tactile senses
- Lightweight and travel-friendly
🔗 View on Amazon
8. Sassy Developmental Bumpy Ball
A soft ball with varied textures and bold patterns to aid in sensory exploration.
Highlights:
- BPA-free loops for grasping and chewing
- Jingle sound encourages auditory attention
- High-contrast colors improve focus
🔗 View on Amazon
9. Fisher-Price Calming Vibes Hedgehog Soother
A soothing, cuddly toy that emits calming vibrations and soft lullabies to comfort fussy newborns.
Highlights:
- Gentle vibration mimics being held
- Washable fabric body
- Easy to activate by parents or baby
🔗 View on Amazon
10. Skip Hop Bandana Buddies Baby Activity Toy
A soft, engaging sensory toy with textures, teether rings, and crinkly fabrics.
Highlights:
- Multiple textures and sounds
- Machine washable
- Great for crib or stroller play
🔗 View on Amazon
🛡️ Newborn Toy Safety Checklist
When buying toys for newborns, make sure they are:
- BPA-, PVC-, and phthalate-free
- No small detachable parts (choking risk)
- Soft edges and non-toxic materials
- Easy to clean or machine washable
Avoid toys with loose strings, buttons, or anything not labeled for 0+ months.
❓FAQs
Q: Can newborns really play with toys?
Yes! While newborns don’t “play” as older babies do, they respond to visual contrast, soft textures, and calming sounds. Toys support cognitive and sensory growth from the start.
Q: Are high-contrast toys better for newborns?
Absolutely. Newborn vision is blurry, and they can best perceive bold patterns in black, white, and red for the first 3 months.
Q: How long should newborns play each day?
Start with a few minutes of supervised tummy time or visual tracking. Gradually increase to 20–30 minutes of total play spread throughout the day.
🛍️ Conclusion: Which Toy Should You Get First?
If you’re just starting out, we highly recommend the Manhattan Toy Winkel for everyday grasping and teething fun, and the Lovevery Looker Kit for a well-rounded sensory experience.
👉 Click here to shop all our picks on Amazon
🎁 Pro tip: These toys make thoughtful gifts for baby showers and first-time parents too!